A CHARITY run by a Dorset mum has won a national award.

Founder Louise Fetigan, who is based in Bovington, formed My Daddy is a Soldier Adventures after realising how her daughter was struggling with her dad being posted to Afghanistan.

She collected the National Military Award for support to the armed forces from celebrities Mary Berry and Jeremy Clarkson at an award ceremony this week.

The Military awards are organised each year by The Sun and are well supported by the Royal Family and celebrities from across Sport, Acting, Music world.  HRH Prince of Wales and HRH Duchess of Cornwall were guests of honour.  Others in attendance included David Beckham, Simon Cowell, Katherine Jenkins and Jamelia

Louise said: “It was such an honour to receive the award for our charity.  Being in an Army family is a unique experience for our children; they have a lot to contend with.  We can’t stop the loneliness and fear children feel when their parent is away, but we can make them feel safe, secure and distracted so they don’t reach crisis point.”

My Daddy is a Soldier Adventures was formed four years ago. The charity has become a great source of support for all children with serving British Army Soldier Parents, by providing vital resources and events while they are separated.  The key aim is to ensure that the bond remains between soldier and child even though they are apart.

Louise runs the charity on her own as a volunteer and they rely on donations to continue their vital work.  You can find out how you can support the charity by visiting www.mydaddyisasoldieradventures.org